Overview
Put down your book and lose yourself in the real-life mystery of Machu Picchu. The health, wealth, and safe travels bestowed upon you at a traditional Mother Earth Ceremony in Peru’s Sacred Valley will come to fruition as you feel the magical mist of the roaring Iguassu Falls, taste the creative cuisine in the world-renowned culinary capital of Lima, and travel back five centuries as you stroll along the stone streets of the Inca capital of Cusco.
Itinerary
Welcome to Santiago!
Upon arrival, you will meet your Globus representative.
Please Note: You will meet your Tour Director in Rio de Janeiro.
Old Meets New
After breakfast, embark on a city tour with a Local Guide who will show you the highlights of this great city of colonial and contemporary contrasts. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CITY SIGHTS: Discover Santiago's beautiful blend of old and new with a guided city tour through its historic and modern sights. See the famous Alameda, Santiago's vibrant main avenue, San Francisco Church, and Santa Lucia Hill.
Let's Go to Rio!
Fly to Rio de Janeiro today and enjoy some free time this evening. (B)
FREE TIME TIPS - EXPLORE MORE: If you have a song in your heart upon arriving in Rio De Janeiro, you can bring it to life with an evening in any one of the electrifying city's nightclubs. Dance to the rhythm of the samba or simply sip a local concoction tapping your toes to the beat. Take in the sounds that move you, from forró music to rock, hip-hop or indie-pop. Rio has it all!
Reaching New Heights
After free time this morning, meet your Tour Director at 3:30pm for a drive to the base of 1,300-foot-high Sugarloaf Mountain. Ascend by cable car to its summit, where you can take in spectacular vistas of the city. Next, toast the start of a memorable vacation with caipirinhas, a traditional Brazilian cocktail, during a cocktail party. (B)
LOCAL FAVORITE - LOCAL TASTES: A once-in-a-lifetime experience awaits atop Sugarloaf Mountain overlooking Guanabara Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views followed by a private cocktail party with your fellow travel companions. Toast with a traditional caipirinha, Brazil's national cocktail, made with fresh lime, cachaça, and sugar. Deliciosa!
Heavenly Views
The city's landmark, the statue of Christ the Redeemer, crowns Corcovado Mountain, a rounded peak rising 2,300 feet from the bay below. A scenic ride by cog railway leads to the top, where a breathtaking 360-degree panorama affords sweeping views. From here, proceed to bustling downtown Rio, where modern office towers stand next to relics of the Portuguese colonial past. View the Sambodromo and visit the Cathedral.
The afternoon is at leisure for you to experience this vibrant city on your own. Tonight, it's a fun outing to a churrascaria for a feast of barbecued meats marinated and roasted over charcoal in true Brazilian style. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: Soar to the summit of Corcovado Mountain by cog railway to reach the site of the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer. This crowning jewel of Rio and Brazil was constructed between 1922 and 1933. The statue of Jesus Christ stands 98 feet high (124 feet including the pedestal) with an arm span of 92 feet wide. Towering over the city, this piece of art is truly an engineering marvel and was voted a New7Wonders of the World.
Beaches, Boutiques & Bites
A full day at leisure to enjoy Rio. Relax on one of the world-famous beaches or take advantage of the world-class shopping or fine dining. (B)
FREE TIME TIPS - EXPLORE MORE: Spend free time in Rio de Janeiro with an optional excursion to Petropolis, (mountain resort and former summer palace of Emperor Dom Pedro II). Get local maps and tips for free time on your GlobusGO app.
What a Rush!
A flight from Rio takes you to Iguassu Falls. Experience the clouds of spray, the incessant roar, and the surrounding luxuriant tropical growth that make this an unforgettable natural wonder. Head into Brazil's Iguassu National Park to enjoy the magnificent panorama of waterfalls from the Brazilian side. Your Local Guide introduces the spectacle of this 2-mile-wide rushing torrent. With some cataracts as high as 250 feet, Iguassu Falls is nothing short of hypnotic! (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - PICTURE PERFECT: Explore incredible Iguassu National Park (Brazilian side) and walk the pathways skirting Iguassu Falls. Watch for amazing wildlife in this protected area, including toucans, agoutis, giant otters, anteaters, tapir, and even jaguars!
Taking the Plunge
Today, journey across the Brazilian border by motorcoach to the Argentine side of Iguassu Falls, where you will enjoy a closer perspective on a walking tour of the falls. Meander along the walkways from atop the falls and enjoy an exhilarating view looking over the precipice of the falls as the water plunges to the rocks below. You will also have the chance to walk through the rainforest on the lower falls trails that will bring you up close to some of the smaller cataracts. Return to the hotel, where the remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NATURAL WONDERS: Visit Iguassu National Park (Argentinian side) where, from this side of the falls, you get a bird's-eye view from the catwalks perched over part of the Devil's Throat, where 14 waterfalls drop more than 300 feet into the Devil's Gorge below. From this completely different perspective compared to Brazil's side, you'll understand why you must see both sides of the falls!
The Boulevards of Buenos Aires
This morning, cross the Brazilian border into Argentina by motorcoach to transfer to the Cataratas del Iguazu International Airport for your flight to Buenos Aires. After arriving, acquaint yourself with the “Paris of South America” and its wide boulevards and outdoor cafés. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CITY SIGHTS: Elegant European architecture, epicurean cuisine, and a café culture to rival any rue de Paris, Buenos Aires is a city of leisurely afternoons sipping café con leche or the choicest Argentinian wines.
Dining, Dancing, Dazzling
Your included sightseeing this morning starts in La Boca, a vibrant district and site of the city's first port. Take a short walking tour of this unique enclave at the mouth of the river and then on to San Telmo, famous for its late-colonial buildings and as a popular gathering spot for artists. At the Plaza de Mayo, see La Casa Rosada (the President's Pink House) and the Metropolitan Cathedral, which houses San Martin's Mausoleum. Drive past the ornate Teatro Colón opera house before reaching Recoleta Cemetery, burial site of Eva Perón.
After an afternoon at leisure, top off the evening at a famous Tango club. Start with a dance lesson, followed by dinner of Argentine steaks and other local specialties, and end with a show featuring flawless performances of Latin America's most sensuous dance—the Tango! (B/D)
LOCAL FAVORITE - CULTURAL GEMS: Like two dancers entwined in perfect sync, the Tango and Argentina go hand in hand. Tonight, feel the passion of this iconic dance at a local milonga (Tango house), where professional tango dancers teach you the traditional techniques of the Argentine Tango. After learning some of the key dance moves, the professionals will delight you in Tango Show featuring the dance as it has evolved through the ages. Plus, dine on Argentine specialties and wine too!
Ranch Life
Today, head into the heart of the pampas (grasslands) and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of rural, country life at a working Argentina estancia (ranch). After a traditional welcome with empanadas and local beverages, get acquainted with the lifestyle of real gauchos (cowboys) on a carriage ride through the pampas.
Later, at lunch, enjoy an authentic feast, complete with world-renowned Argentine beef, salad, desserts, and live music and dance by the gauchos themselves. Top off the day with an equestrian demonstration by the gauchos before saying adios to the countryside and heading back to the city. (B/L)
LOCAL FAVORITE - CULTURE & TRADITION: Argentinean Estancias date back to the 16th Century during Spanish colonization when conquistadors where gifted land to raise and breed cattle. Today, these lands and traditions that go along with them have been passed down from generation to generation. Today, you step into the traditional, local life of a gaucho and embrace Argentinian heritage.
Adiós, Argentina. Hola, Peru!
After a morning at leisure to enjoy Buenos Aires on your own, fly to Lima, the capital of Peru located on the country's arid Pacific Coast. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME - CULTURAL TREASURE: Founded in 1535 by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, Lima is a modern melting pot of food fusion, fashion, and fascinating finds in art, culture, and architecture. From the central square of Plaza Mayor to the ceviche and pisco sours to tempt the palate, you'll find feasts for the eyes and the appetite in this capital city of Peru.
Legendary Lima
Your city sightseeing tour focuses on Lima's rich colonial history as well as the modern city. See the 18th-century San Francisco Monastery with its unique cloisters, Government Palace, and the cathedral situated around the vast Plaza de Armas. Tonight, visit the Larco Herrera Museum, which houses the largest private collection of Pre-Columbian Peruvian art in the world. Enjoy dinner at the museum's restaurant. (B/D)
LOCAL FAVORITE - ART & ARCHITECTURE: This evening, an exclusive guided tour of Lima's Larco Herrera Museum, on the site of a 7th-century pre-Columbian pyramid, introduces you to the world's largest private collection of pre-Columbian Peruvian art. See 5,000 years of art, artifacts, and archaeological treasures followed by a special dinner in the beautiful Peruvian café here.
Empire of the Andes
Fly to Cusco, the impressive Andean city that was once the capital of the Inca Empire. Head into the Sacred Valley of the Incas and visit the semi-circular Kenko Amphitheater with its stone altars and labyrinth of passages, and see the ancient site of Puca Pucara. Also, in the Sacred Valley, experience an El Pago a la Tierra, or Mother Earth Ceremony, performed by a local shaman.
Continue to Pisaq, a historic mountain village and famous market. Here, taste an empanada and enjoy free time to shop for local wares, such as alpaca sweaters and blankets, jewelry, or hand-painted ornamental dishes and vases at its famous market. Stay in the Sacred Valley tonight, with dinner at the hotel. (B/D)
LOCAL FAVORITE - CULTURE & TRADITION: Feel the earth, smell the coca leaves, and taste the chicha today as you make payment to Mother Earth. Participate in an El Pago a la Tierra, an ancient ceremony led by a shaman thanking Mother Earth and asking for good health, wealth, and safe travels. These mystical ceremonies have been practiced in Peru since before the arrival of the Incas.
Mystery on the Mountain
This morning, visit the Inca Fortress of Ollantaytambo, followed by a visit to a local home, meet some of the area's families, and experience their way of life in the Sacred Valley. Then, board the Vistadome train for a scenic journey through the lush Urubamba Valley.
Upon arrival, ascend the mountainside to legendary Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas.” Your Local Guide will introduce this intact fortress with its temple remains, holy houses, and mile-long aqueduct, and will bring you closer to the mysteries still hidden in these amazing structures. Tonight, learn how to make the perfect Pisco Sour at a Peruvian cooking demonstration before your included dinner. (B/D)
LOCAL FAVORITE - TIMELESS TRADITIONS: Today, you are invited into a local family's home in the Sacred Valley. Learn about their traditions like weaving that has been passed down for centuries from ancestors. See how they cook, live, sleep, work, and maybe ask about the cuy (guinea pigs), they keep in their house.
ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT: The Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel, named one of South America's best hotels and the recipient of the Rainforest Alliance sustainability certification is located at the foot of the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu near the beautiful Vilcanota River, and offers impressive views of the mountains and landscapes. A hotel with a contemporary Andean style inspired by the ancient Peruvian cultures, offering personalized luxury service and innovative Peruvian cuisine. Offering regional gastronomy experiences, the Sumaq uses local ingredients in partnership with communities located high in the Andes, such as Quishuarcancha, Parcaraqui, and Huatata in Chinchero, as well as the small community of Ccorca that is home to fewer than 200 people.
Here Comes the Sun
A morning at leisure in Machu Picchu allows you to wake up early to see the sunrise over Machu Picchu with your second included entrance to the ruins. After lunch, return to the Sacred Valley by train and continue to Cusco. (B/L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORY & MYSTERY: Staying overnight in Machu Picchu allows you to rise early and experience the ruins at their most pristine before the crowds arrive. Watch as the mist slowly burns off and the sun rays illuminate the ruins. While you are there, you may even want to try and get a selfie with one of the local llamas or alpacas!
Sun Worship & Spanish Conquests
On your guided sightseeing tour of Cusco today, learn more about the Inca and Spanish influence. Begin at the heart of Cusco in the Plaza de Armas (main square), with a visit to the imposing Cathedral, where construction began in 1550 and was finally completed 100 years later.
Continue to Koricancha and the Santo Domingo Monastery and see how the two sites have become one. The Temple of the Sun at Koricancha was once the most important Inca site, dedicated to the worship of the Sun. The walls, altars, and decorations were all said to be covered in gold—until the Spaniards looted the temple and then built the contrasting Baroque Santo Domingo Monastery on top of the temple's foundations. Also, visit the Temple of Sacsayhuaman, perched on a hillside overlooking Cusco.
Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore on your own. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a festive farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LEGENDARY LIVES: Built in the 15th Century by the Incas, the Temple of Sacsayhuaman complex is considered to be one of the Inca's greatest architectural creations. It is believed the site was originally constructed as a ceremonial site and later a fortress when the Spanish invaded. It remains unfathomable how and when this fortress of gigantic stones—with some blocks weighing more than 350 tons—was built. During your guided tour, learn some of the theories on how the massive stones used were carved, carried, and placed.
Hasta Luego, Cusco
A short morning flight returns you to Lima. For a special treat, make a stop at a local Peruvian food market to get a real taste of the life of the local people. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore on your own. (B)
LOCAL FAVORITE - LOCAL TASTES: Stop for a real taste of Peru at a local market. Sample some of the local fruits and vegetable that aren't found in other parts of the world. You can also find spices, meats, seafood, and even a souvenir or two. And you'll definitely want to take some photos of the beautiful, brightly hued displays.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- We've packed everything you need for the perfect vacation—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides, to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world's most iconic sites! Touring by private, air-conditioned motorcoach, Free Wi-Fi (where available).
- 18 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 7 Dinners
- Santiago: Sheraton Santiago Hotel & Convention Center (Deluxe):
This contemporary hotel is ideally located within minutes of some of the city's best shopping areas, restaurants, and attractions. The hotel features three Chilean inspired restaurants, two bars, state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, beauty salon, tennis court, gift shop, and access to medical services. - Rio de Janeiro: Hilton Rio Copacabana (Moderate Deluxe):
Located just steps away from the famous Copacabana beach and waterfront, Hilton Copacabana offers two sparkling swimming pools, a full-service wellness spa, multiple restaurants and bars, beachside service at Copacabana's waterfront, and comfortable and cozy guestrooms with spectacular views. - Iguassu Falls: Bourbon Cataratas Hotel (First-Class):
The Bourbon Cataratas Resort Hotel, is strategically located near the main tourist sites of Iguassu. Exclusive and professional staff take care of every detail. - Buenos Aires: Hotel Alvear ICON (Superior First-Class):
Situated in Puerto Madero, the city's most eclectic district, take in the breathtaking views of the city and the River Plate while lodging in opulent and cozy suites, exploring the many eateries and bars, and unwinding in the magnificent Beauty & Wellness Center. The Alvear Icon Hotel is the ideal representation of the vitality and modernity that define Buenos Aires. - Lima: Hotel Pullman Miraflores (Superior First-Class):
The Pullman Miraflores hotel combins lifestyle and design for business and leisure. Located in the exclusive Miraflores district, near the Pacific Ocean, this hotel is not far from Larcomar shopping center. With over 236 rooms, Plural lounge restaurant, gym, pool and a spectacular Rooftop Bar the Pullman Miraflores offers an amazing place to stay and relax. - Sacred Valley: Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel and Villas (Superior First-Class):
The Casa Andina Premium Collection hotel in the Sacred Valley is a luxurious and satisfying retreat. Combining fine food, comfortable rooms, and personalized attention, it is the Valley's most complete hotel. In addition to a spa, a fitness center, and romantic dining, this hotel is best known for providing panoramic views of the Andes in every room. This charming mountain chalet-style hotel adds style and comfort to the already stunning atmosphere of Peru's Sacred Valley. - Machu Picchu: Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (Moderate Deluxe):
The Sumaq Hotel is located at the foot of the Machu Picchu ruins and boasts an Andean health spa, bar, restaurant, gift shop, and business center. - Cusco: Casa Andina Premium Cusco (First-Class):
A beautifully renovated 18th-century manor house is located 3 blocks from Cusco's Plaza de Armas. The hotel is distinguished by its 3 interior patios with wooden balconies. The principal patio, featuring a gurgling stone fountain, is one of Cusco's emblematic colonial courtyards. Amenities include a gourmet restaurant, bar, reading room, room service, gift shop, and laundry service.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- Maximum enjoyment of this vacation requires walking on cobblestone streets, uneven pathways, and climbing stairs. Elevations exceeding 10,000 feet can make even modest exertion a challenge. Maximum elevation on this tour is 12,200 ft.
Globus includes all must-see sites, with special VIP access that lets you skip to the front of the queue. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great vacation. Savour the flavours of South America through its regional cuisine. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of South America. Read more
Globus' selection of hotels in unforgettable places ensure you stay right in the heart of each destination. Read more
Globus takes care of the components that make your tour unforgettable, so just sit back and relax. Read more
Experience South America like an insider with Local Favourites that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more
Brochure
Globus Worldwide (2025-26)
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Globus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Globus. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
